Kerala is set to host India’s first-ever Dhanurveda archery festival, “Way of the Bow – Urban Hermit Festival,” from January 30 to February 1 at Prakritheeyam near Nedumangadu, Thiruvananthapuram. The three-day event will revive the ancient science of archery, blending tradition, culture, and scholarship into a living knowledge system
Kerala is preparing to spotlight India’s rich martial heritage with the launch of the Dhanurveda Archery Festival, a pioneering event dedicated to the ancient science of archery. Organized by cultural collective Two by Three in collaboration with the Indo-Vedic Traditional Archery Association, the festival repositions archery as more than a sport—emphasizing its roots in knowledge, culture, and tradition
Key Highlights
• Festival Dates & Venue: January 30 – February 1, 2026, at Prakritheeyam, a forested stretch near Nedumangadu, Thiruvananthapuram.
• Unique Focus: Archery will be presented as a living knowledge system, drawing from the Dhanurveda treatise and epic traditions.
• Participants: Traditional archers, Kalari practitioners, scholars, and learners will gather to explore the philosophy and practice of Dhanurvidya.
• Cultural Integration: The event will feature workshops, indigenous hunting traditions, performances, and interactive sessions to engage diverse audiences.
• Major Takeaway: The festival aims to revive India’s martial legacy while fostering community dialogue around heritage and sustainable living.
This landmark initiative underscores Kerala’s role in preserving and promoting India’s intangible cultural heritage.
Sources: The New Indian Express, HappeningNext, AllEvents.